The Pig Pen in Alabang: A Millennial Take on Asian and European Cuisine

The Pig Pen in Alabang: A Millennial Take on Asian and European Cuisine

From the same people who brought you the Black Pig, The Pig Pen is its “little brother” that specifically targets the younger people (aka millennials).

The Pig Pen’s first branch opened in Nuvali way back 2015, followed by Makati in 2017, and just recently, this one in Commercenter, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

What makes The Pig Pen different from The Black Pig is that it has a modern take on both Asian and European food that are well-known as comfort food—and they’re cheaper!

Somehow retaining the name from The Black Pig, the owners wanted to use “pig pen” as they want it to serve as a gathering place for groups of friends or families. “You have to have a lot of humor to be able to not take it literally [laughs],” managing partner Berna Garriz said.

Despite the differences in their concept, though, The Pig Pen is still handled by the same chef behind The Black Pig, Carlos Garcia Rodriguez. He may be preparing more European dishes, but still prides in using Asian ingredients.

To start off, sample their European Organic Salad (Php 360 for solo/Php 515 for sharing). It’s really refreshing to eat especially on a hot summer day!

European Organic Salad (Php 360 for solo/Php 515 for sharing)

One of the crowd favorites for the main course is the Pork Belly Rice Bowl (Php 315). The meat is very soft and juicy, and it mixes well with the slightly spicy kick from the kimchi. The soft-boiled egg also helps the overall meal extra savory.

Pork Belly Rice Bowl (Php 315)

Also try the Grilled Tamarind Chicken (Php 280 for small/Php 440 for large), which boasts a tangy sweet and sour flavor. You’d want to pair this with rice, but you can also eat it as it is (bonus: it goes right with their cocktails).

Grilled Tamarind Chicken (Php 280 for small/Php 440 for large)

Ultimately, The Pig Pen is ideal for the adventure seekers who are looking to try unique and yet value-for-money food. It surely won’t disappoint as the authenticity of their food will entice you.

If you’re looking for drinks, they have a selection of exquisite alcohols to choose from. According to Berna, the best sellers for cocktails are Tinto de Verano, Mojito, and Sangria.

The Pig Pen also boasts a modern, Instagrammable interior that any millennial would love. “We wanted it to have a sense of ambiance for the customers,” Berna said.

You’ll particularly like the windows as it’s reminiscent of the one you see in a traditional Filipino home.

So if you’re looking for a chill hangout spot with your Southie friends, look no further than The Pig Pen!

How to get here

By car: Head South on Metro Manila Skyway to Alabang/South Station toll. Exit on the left onto Alabang-Zapote Rd, then turn left onto Filinvest Avenue. The Pig Pen is located on the ground floor of Commercenter.

By public transport: Take a P2P bus to Alabang Town Center. From there, walk south toward Commerce Ave, then turn left onto Commerce Ave. Continue walking until you turn right onto Filinvest Ave. Commercenter will be on your left.

This first appeared in Philippine Primer magazine’s May 2019 issue.Written by Yana Bautista